Customer Reviews

Handknit Style II: More Contemporary Sweaters from Tricoter

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Tricoter has done it again! I loved their first HandKnit Style book for the wearability and fashionable designs and this one is just as good, in my opinion. The color block jacket is a beautiful and casual piece, just right for teens to seniors. This book also has another Chanel-Style jacket, in white this time, and a cardigan done in green that's so adaptable for nearly any size and weight of yarn and so lends itself to embellishment that the possibilities are endless. The lace cardigan is another eye catcher and, again, the yarn could be easily changed to suit. The styles are also adaptable to larger sized women. Some of the patterns have an extra large size option, but most would look good on a large woman with some simple adjustments. The only piece that I think would be difficult, though not impossible, to adapt would be the pink cabled cardigan because of the body hugging fit and the pattern repeats.

The only piece I don't foresee knitting is the Color-Work Skirt, but that's because I surely don't have the figure to pull off a knitted skirt of any kind. It's a lovely piece, though, and a teenager or young woman would look very chic in it.

I've always been inspired by pictures, so this is ultimate eye candy for me. I've noticed that the authors have used a lot of lime green in their finished garments. Whether this is to provide contrast in the photography or because lime is an "in" color doesn't matter. If you're not bothered by using colors other than those listed, you'll substitute a different color, or do the whole thing in lime green, and away you go!

There are some styles that I would change slightly, but overall, the sweaters are gorgeous and are all things that I would wear myself or could picture my daughters or my friends wearing. Nothing outrageous here, and nothing that will be fun for a few weeks and end up at the back of the closet later--such a waste of time and yarn! Get this book, and then get the first one. They're expensive books, but for an avid and imaginative knitter, the cost is justified by the endless possibilities represented.

This volume features a great variety, from simple lines and shapes to more designer styles. There is even a Color-Work Skirt pattern in a simple below-the-knee fluted shape that would be flattering on everyone. I counted six jacket patterns (including an adorable Chanel-inspired pattern), four cardigans, four pullovers, a cute square-necked shell and the skirt mentioned above. I've loved the Tricoter designs since Simply Beautiful Sweaters, and highly recommend the finishing techniques used here. The Crab Stitch crocheted edging and chain stitch to stabilize the shoulders make a very professional finish.
I couldn't give this five stars for two reasons:
1)the sizes are too limited
2)the yarn substitution is a little tricky

After looking all over for this pattern book I finally found it at the right price and in perfect condition! Thanks.